Ep. 564: Revealing…the Annual Challenge for 2026! Plus a Report on Read 25 in 2025

"Mothering Sunday" tells the story of Jane Fairchild, a young housemaid in post-World War I England, who has a secret love affair with Paul Sheringham, the son of her employers' friends. On Mothering Sunday, while the family is occupied with traditional celebrations, Jane and Paul seize the opportunity for a clandestine rendezvous. The novel explores themes of love, class, and the lasting impact of war on British society. As Jane reflects on her past and navigates her future, the book delves into the power of memory and the choices that shape our lives. "Mothering Sunday" is a poignant and evocative portrayal of a woman's journey through loss, love, and self-discovery.

In 'Outer Order, Inner Calm', Gretchen Rubin argues that an organized space significantly contributes to inner calm and overall happiness. The book offers over a hundred practical strategies for decluttering and organizing, divided into sections such as 'Make Choices', 'Create Order', 'Know Yourself–and Others', 'Cultivate Helpful Habits', and 'Add Beauty'. Rubin emphasizes the importance of understanding personal habits and emotional attachments to possessions, and provides manageable steps to create a serene and orderly environment. By getting rid of unnecessary items, readers can free their minds and shelves for what they truly value, leading to a more controlled, calm, and energetic life.

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements.